Sint Maarten – The Sint Maarten Yacht Club (SMYC) is once again abuzz with activity as the 2026-2027 sailing season has begun and lots of eager sailors are taking to the water. Starting in early September, we welcomed back our Youth Sailing, Primary School, and Sailability programs, and we’re looking forward to hosting new programs and racing events in this season.
Kicking off in the beginning of September, SMYC’s Youth Sailing Program began with many students returning from previous years and some new faces joining as well. The lessons take place on Monday–Friday after school from 3:30-6:00 pm, and on Saturday mornings from 9-11:30 am. The goal of the Youth Sailing Program is to provide our young sailors with the opportunity to learn and enjoy sailing and racing. Sailing nurtures and builds confidence, team skills, self-reliance, physical strength, critical thinking, and a love for the environment. There are currently open spaces available on Monday and Tuesday afternoons if you have a child that would like to participate.
The Primary School Program began in mid-September, where 13 children per school were selected from grade six in public schools on St. Maarten. The program is put together by SMYC and is sponsored by the Gustavia Yacht Club, T-Maxx, Bob Hilbert and Lagoon Marina. The students learn to swim and sail, creating confidence in and on the water. Over the years, this program has been successful at teaching kids who would otherwise not learn how to sail to be enthused about taking charge of their own boat, with the majority of students wanting to continue beyond the school year.
Also in September, we were especially excited to welcome back our Sailability students on Tuesday and Friday mornings. This unique class provides students who are differently abled with a chance to get out on the water and experience what makes sailing so special. SMYC uses a purpose-built sailboat, the RS Venture Connect, to run these classes and we’re pleased to see the smiles on the students’ faces when the wind fills the sails.
Coming up in October, SMYC will be hosting the Soons Dinghy Regatta on Saturday morning October 10, followed by our annual Open House from 11 am to 4 pm. This is a chance for the community to come together and find out what the club has to offer. Participants can come enjoy a free sailing experience (no experience required), make your own bracelet, and cool off with some ice cream or a cold beverage.
It has been a busy start to the season here at SMYC and we’re excited for other upcoming events including the Caribbean Dinghy Championships October 22-25; Keelboat Oyster Bay Weekend on October 31; Sunday Fun Day sails on November 1, November 15, and December 20; and Adult Sailing Classes. Find out more by visiting smyc.com.
